How to throw a circus party

Roll up, roll up. We're over irony. No more of your 'I'm-so-jaded-that-I-find-simpleton-theme-parties-are-beneath-me-and-I'd-much-rather-deck-myself-out-in-black-and-drink-absinthe' act. Actually, we'd probably be up for that too, but right now we're all about a full-on circus-themed celebration. Time to clown around.

Costumes:

The more extravagant the better. Clowns are a staple, whether you're a typical red-nose-and-funny-shoes type, a mime, or some terrifying Pennywise effort. If you reckon you're buff (or not) you could be a strongman. Or maybe a lion, complete with tamer. For ladies looking to dress sexy, grab yourself some slinky spandex and call yourself an acrobat. Or if you fancy looking rank you could always be the bearded lady. And of course, the host of this circus soirée has to don a ringmaster's outfit.

The décor:

Throw your party outside if you can. A big top is good, but some sheets hanging from trees will set the tone nicely. If you don't fancy braving the risks of a wash-out, drape the 'tent' on the walls of your flat. Plushie animals and messy sawdust on wooden floors will give you that exotic touch.

clowncon clowns circus eating drinking dancing ringmaster parade

Food and drink:

Buckets full of popcorn, hotdogs, peanuts, ice cream cups, crisps, and sweets are the order of the day, and if you can get hold of candy floss (not easy to come by in this day and age) then all the better.

Buy some Pimms, lemonade, beer, and possibly soft drinks to set the circus mood. If you fancy circus cocktails then why not try this one that Itchy found on www.drinksmixer.com?

Cotton candy cocktail:

Get a blender and blitz up 2 oz Malibu with a dash of grenadine, pina colada mix and some ice, and serve it in a cocktail glass.

Games:

What night at the circus would be complete without a bit of juggling? Use bean bags, scarves, rubber balls, bowling pins, clown noses or whatever you can lay your hands on. You could try enforcing a 'drop you drink' rule, though this one is bound to end in runny face-paint clown tears.

As will unicycle racing. But if you like to live on the edge, you can pick one up here

Not got much to smile about? How about a budget blowout?

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